Simmons, Jefferson cleared to practice

Will Jefferson cleared admissions and CU is hopeful that Andre Simmons will also be able to practice when the Buffaloes officially begin preparation for the 2009 season on Friday.

CU Sports Information Director David Plati updated the academic status of both receivers with Rivals.com on Thursday night. He noted that Jefferson "is good to go" and that Simmons has been admitted pending his Junior College transcripts, which were relayed verbally. They hope to get the written transcript on Friday so he can practice.

Good news for Buff Nation, especially given CU's lack of depth and experience at receiver. Scotty McKnight is the Buffaloes' only returning receiver that has caught a pass in a college game.

Simmons, who attended Independence Community College as a freshman and sophomore, had to complete nine courses after signing with the Buffs in February to gain eligibility.

Simmons was one of CU's highest rated signees from the Class of 2009. He caught 88 passes for 1,208 yards during his two seasons at the Junior College level.

Jefferson is a lesser-known, late addition for the Buffaloes. He had an impressive prep career at Vista del Lago High School in Moreno Valley, Calif., but did not sign with a college in February. CU did not bring him out on an official visit until late July.

Jefferson earned first-team all-league honors as a senior after accounting for 1,846 yards and 17 touchdowns on offense. He also averaged 17.2 yards per punt return and 27.5 yards per kick return.

Additional notes:

*** Sophomore offensive lineman Sione Tau will not be allowed to play this season after violating team rules. He is expected to return as an active member of the team in January with two years of eligibility remaining. Tau had to sit out last season due to academic problems.

*** Players reported on Thursday and will practice for the first time on Friday, 5:30-7:45 pm (MST). On Saturday, veterans will practice 9:45-11:45 am and newcomers will practice 4:30-6:30 pm.

*** Practices between August 7th and the 13th are open to the public. The Buffaloes' practice fields are located down the hill north of Folsom Field.